This thesis examines the suitability of airdrop as a means of resupply for the Canadian Forces (CF) in an attempt to reduce forward supply inventories and promote “zero-footprint” logistics. Research methods involved both quantitative and qualitative techniques, consulting CF manuals and subject matter experts. Based on performance, airdrop staged from rear locations or outside the theatre of operations can meet resupply requirements. Although airdrop has longer assembly and loading times than ground based delivery, flight speed and direct routes can make up the difference. However based on interviews with CF personnel, it appears that due to limited availability of aircraft, drop zone requirements, delivery vehicle vulnerability, and the need for backhaul logistics, airdrop could not be used as a sole means of resupply.

This thesis examines the suitability of airdrop as a means of resupply for the Canadian Forces (CF) in an attempt to reduce forward supply inventories and promote “zero-footprint” logistics. Research methods involved both quantitative and qualitative techniques, consulting CF manuals and subject matter experts. Based on performance, airdrop staged from rear locations or outside the theatre of operations can meet resupply requirements. Although airdrop has longer assembly and loading times than ground based delivery, flight speed and direct routes can make up the difference. However based on interviews with CF personnel, it appears that due to limited availability of aircraft, drop zone requirements, delivery vehicle vulnerability, and the need for backhaul logistics, airdrop could not be used as a sole means of resupply.